Name Meaning: The name Eli-za'phan (also spelled Elizaphan) is of Hebrew origin, meaning "God has protected" or "God is my treasure."

Biblical References:

1. Lineage and Family: Eli-za'phan is identified as a Levite, specifically from the family of Kohath. He is the son of Uzziel, who was a son of Kohath, making Eli-za'phan a great-grandson of Levi. This places him within the priestly tribe of Levi, which was set apart for religious duties and service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

· Exodus 6:22 : "The sons of Uzziel were Mishael, Elzaphan, and Sithri."

2. Role in the Wilderness: Eli-za'phan is noted for his role during the wilderness period of Israel's history. He was appointed as a leader among the Levites, specifically over the Kohathite division. The Kohathites were responsible for the care of the most sacred objects of the Tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils.

· Numbers 3:30 : "The leader of the families of the Kohathites was Elizaphan son of Uzziel."

3. Service in the Tabernacle: As a leader of the Kohathites, Eli-za'phan played a crucial role in the transportation and safeguarding of the holy items during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. His leadership was essential in ensuring that the sacred duties were performed according to the commands given by God to Moses.

4. Involvement in the Incident of Nadab and Abihu: Eli-za'phan is also mentioned in the context of the tragic incident involving Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, who offered unauthorized fire before the Lord and were struck down. Moses instructed Eli-za'phan and his brother Mishael to carry the bodies of Nadab and Abihu out of the camp.

· Leviticus 10:4 : "Moses summoned Mishael and Elzaphan, the sons of Aaron’s uncle Uzziel, and said to them, 'Come here and carry your brothers outside the camp, away from the front of the sanctuary.'"

Significance:

Eli-za'phan's role as a leader among the Levites highlights the importance of the Levitical duties and the care with which the sacred objects of worship were to be handled. His involvement in the aftermath of Nadab and Abihu's disobedience underscores the seriousness of adhering to God's commands, especially concerning worship and the sanctity of the Tabernacle.

Eli-za'phan's life and service exemplify the responsibilities and privileges of the Levitical priesthood, serving as a reminder of the holiness required in approaching God and the reverence due to His commands. His obedience and leadership within the Levitical community reflect the broader theme of faithfulness and dedication to God's service that is woven throughout the narrative of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land.Eli-za'phan (4 Occurrences)

Numbers 3:30
the prince of the fathers' house of the families of the Kohathites being Elizaphan the son of Uzziel,
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Numbers 34:25
And of the tribe of the children of Zebulun a prince, Eli-zaphan the son of Parnach.
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1 Chronicles 15:8
of the sons of Elizaphan: Shemaiah the chief, and his brethren two hundred;
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2 Chronicles 29:13
and of the sons of Elizaphan, Shimri and Jeiel; and of the sons of Asaph, Zechariah and Mattaniah;
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Eli-za'phan (4 Occurrences)
Eli-za'phan. Eli-zaphan, Eli-za'phan. Elizur . Multi-Version Concordance
Eli-za'phan (4 Occurrences). Numbers 3:30 the prince of ...
/e/eli-za'phan.htm - 7k

Eli-zaphan (1 Occurrence)
Eli-zaphan. Elizaphan, Eli-zaphan. Eli-za'phan . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(See JPS). Elizaphan, Eli-zaphan. Eli-za'phan . Reference Bible.
/e/eli-zaphan.htm - 6k

Elizur (5 Occurrences)

/e/elizur.htm - 8k

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